Fingerprinting

Tortoise Identification

The identification of an individual chelonian is desirable for several reasons, especially the help it gives in identifying a tortoise which may have been lost or stolen. In the past many tortoises have been painted or had their shell notched, neither of which is permanent or good for the animal. Although DEFRA has advocated microchipping, this is an invasive procedure and not suitable for small tortoises. Fingerprinting can be carried out on most sizes or species and may be updated easily as a young tortoise grows.

How does it work?

The plastron (lower shell) of each tortoise is as individual as our fingerprints are to us. The carapace (upper shell) may also be distinctive, and together these can positively identify any given animal. Using written data on a computer system alongside a manual trawl of the photographs, the system is legally acceptable as it cannot be tampered with. This compares favourably with our original system, whereby photos were digitised by a computer program.

Cost

The Fingerprinting Scheme is now available exclusively to BCG members, and is free of charge.

What you need to do

For each animal we need a completed Fingerprinting Registration Form, two identical (original) photos of both the plastron and the carapace as well as a S.A.E. We will return one set of photos to you to keep in a safe place with your registration number.

NOTE: Please do not email digital photographs, they are not acceptable. Hard copy only.

Photographic Tips

Tortoises should be clean and dry, photos should be in colour and the tortoise should fill the whole frame. Above all, the focus must be sharp. If the photo is not suitable it will be returned.

This is a GOOD photo because it is clear, in focus, shows the plastron from above and the tortoise fills the whole frame.

This is NOT suitable because the tortoise is too small, it is out of focus and does not show the plastron straight on.

If you do lose your tortoise (or indeed if you find one) you should also contact our

Security Advisor & Theft Co-ordinator:
Mr. John Hayward - Tel: 01869 325699.

For further information email: Fingerprinting Officer

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